Matsukawabakke

Matsukawabakke are scaled koi with a white or grey base and areas of black pattern over top of the base color. Matsukawabakke are the scaled predecessor to the Kumonryu. It is commonly believed that Kumonryu were developed by crossing Matsukawabakke and Shusui.

Like Kumonryu, Matsukawabakke will completely change their pattern many times throughout their lifespan. It is possible for any single Matsukawabakke to be solid white, solid black, or any conceivable pattern in between at any certain point in it’s life. No one is precisely sure what causes the change in pattern. However, water temperature and pH seem to play a significant role.

What To Look For

Since Matsukawabakke will change their patterns many time throughout their life, very little importance should be placed on the pattern displayed at the time of purchase. First and foremost, body conformation should be taken into consideration.

Instead of paying attention to the pattern, focus on the quality of the colors. Look for a Matsukawabakke with good, deep, dark black. While the pattern will change many times throughout the years, the colors that comprise the patterns will remain the same.